Blog · Deborah Bateson · 14 May 2026
Physiotherapy
Shockwave or hands-on physiotherapy?
You do not have to choose a camp. Deborah Bateson on combining manual therapy and shockwave when the tendon picture supports it.
Diagnosis first
Plantar heel pain is not always plantar fasciitis. A stiff ankle is not always a tendon. We examine, then we choose tools.
Combination care
Manual therapy can make the loading programme tolerable. Shockwave can help some stubborn tendons. Exercise is still the through-line.
If you only want the machine
I will explain why that is a weak plan. You can still decline exercises — I will document that — but I will not pretend it is optimal.
This article is general information for people considering care at Health at Hart in Hartley Wintney. It is not a diagnosis, a prescription, or a promise of outcome. If you have sudden, severe or unexplained symptoms — including chest pain, unexplained weight loss, night pain, bowel or bladder changes, or a new neurological problem — seek urgent medical advice (NHS 111 or 999). UK osteopaths are regulated by the General Osteopathic Council. Counsellors named here are BACP-registered where stated. Always check with your GP or insurer if you are unsure whether a treatment is appropriate for you.
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